May the name of the Almighty God be exalted.
Greetings to all in the name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
During the period of June 16th to 29th, we observed the Apostles' lent, reflecting
on the lives and teachings of the apostles. It was a time of deep reflection and
spiritual growth.
As you may be aware, the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle is celebrated on
different dates by different Christian traditions. December 21st is recognized as
the feast day of St.Thomas, commemorating his martyrdom in India. It is a day
to honour his faith and sacrifice.
Additionally, on July 3rd, the replicas of St. Thomas are traditionally said to have
been shifted from Mylapore, Chennai to Edessa. While this is a significant event
associated with the remembrance of St. Thomas.
In July, we will continue our theme of Discipleship, focusing on the readiness to
die with Christ. We will also reflect on the ministry of the clergy, the people of
God, and the mission of our church. Let us strive to deepen our understanding
and commitment to these aspects of our faith.
With the start of the new financial year on July 1st, I extend a warm welcome to the
new office bearers of our parish and organizations, as well as all committee
members. May God grant them strength and wisdom as they undertake their new
responsibilities. I would also like to express my gratitude to the existing committee
members and office bearers for their dedicated leadership throughout the past
year.
JULY NEWSLETTER
VICAR'S MESSAGE
WORSHIP SCHEDULE
EVENTS & MEETINGS
AUXILIARY INFO
THANKSGIVING
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3
4
6
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"A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from
the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord"
-Leviticus 27:30
MELBOURNE MAR THOMA CHURCH
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M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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Rev. Shoji Varghese
Mob: 04 0131 1688
As members of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, we have a great
responsibility to continue the mission work in the land where we live. Let us be
mindful of our calling to witness the Kingdom of God through our words and
actions. I encourage you to grow together in unity and love in Christ, remaining
loyal to our Lord Jesus and our church. Let us pray together for the growth of our
community and the mission work in our midst.
I would like to take a moment to appreciate the efforts of our parish choir in
organizing the "Notes of Nostalgia" musical night. It was a wonderful event that
provided a divine experience and brought back cherished memories. I extend
my gratitude to the leaders and members of our choir, as well as all those who
supported this event.
I also want to remind our children to prepare for the upcoming Scripture Bee,
scheduled for July 9th and 16th. It is a great opportunity for them to deepen their
knowledge of the scriptures and grow in their faith.
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to our new members, Mr. Jomses
Mathew and his family from Malappuram. May their presence enrich our
community and strengthen our fellowship.
I would like to offer our prayers and condolences to the families who have
recently lost their beloved parents. Our thoughts and support are with the
families of Surgie & Geetha, Santhosh & Annie, and Bobby & Nivea during this
difficult time.
May the Lord bless each and every one of us and guide us on our journey to live a
Christ-centred life.
Shalom.
SERVICE
THEME
READINGS
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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MALAYALAM
HC
TIME
DATE
8:30AM
9 JULY
16 JULY
23 JULY
LESSONS
Deut 14:22-29
1Tim 6:17-21
EPISTLE
2Cor 9:6-12
GOSPEL
Luke 3:7-14
2 JULY
8:30 AM
7:30 AM
10:45 AM
ENGLISH HC
Youth Service
MALAYALAM
HC
MALAYALAM
HC
1st SUNDAY
Tithe Offering Sunday-Share for
the Gospel (5th Sunday after
Pentecost); ദശാംശ സമർണ
ഞായർുവിേശഷിനായി
പിടുക (െപെേാസ്തിന
േശഷം 5-ആം ഞായർ)
2nd SUNDAY
Clergy Sunday-Priests:
Ministers of the Kingdom of
God (6th Sunday after
Pentecost); ൈവദിക ഞായർ-
ൈവദികർ: ൈദവരാജ
ശുശൂഷകർ
(െപെേാസ്തിന േശഷം
6-ആം ഞായർ)
3rd SUNDAY
People of God: The body of
Jesus Christ (7th Sunday after
Pentecost); ൈദവജനം:
േയശുകിസ്തുവിെ ശരീരം
(െപെേാസ്തിന േശഷം 7-
ആം ഞായർ)
4th SUNDAY
Good News: Life Through Death
(8th Sunday after Pentecost);
മരണിലൂെട ജീവൻ എ
ുവിേശഷം
(െപെേാസ്തിന േശഷം 8-
ആം ഞായർ)
LESSONS
Ezek 33:1-9
1Tim 6:11-16
EPISTLE
Eph 4:7-16
GOSPEL
Matt 9:35-38
LESSONS
Josh 1:1-9
1Cor 12:27-31
EPISTLE
2Cor 5:16-21
GOSPEL
Matt 5:43-48
LESSONS
Deut 6:1-17
Eph 3:1-13
EPISTLE
Rom 8:12-17
GOSPEL
John 12:20-26
** Changes to any of the above schedule will be intimated closer to the date of each service.
If anyone is interested in bringing fresh flowers for Altar on
Sundays', please contact assistant secretary.
ENGLISH
HC
10:45 AM
30 JULY
5th SUNDAY
Holy Spirit who Empowers for
Mission (9th Sunday after
Pentecost); ദൗതിനായി
ശീകരിു
പരിശുാതമാവ്
(െപെേാസ്തിന േശഷം 9-
ആം ഞായർ)
8:30 AM
ENGLISH
HC
LESSONS
Isa 61:1-4
Acts 1:1-11
EPISTLE
Gal 5:16-24
GOSPEL
John 20:19-23
7:30 AM
MALAYALAM
HC
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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PLEASE NOTE THE ABOVE DATES IN YOUR CALENDAR
** Changes to any of the above schedule will be intimated closer to the date of the event.
4:30PM
7:00PM
NORTH A
SOUTH
1 JULY
4:30PM
7:00PM
NORTH WEST
NORTH B
4:30PM
7:00PM
CENTRAL A
CENTRAL B
8 JULY
22 JULY
13 JULY
Youth Bible Study
9 JULY
Youth AGM
8 JULY
STEFM Netball Competition
9 & 16 JULY
Scripture Bee
1 JULY
STEFM St. Thomas Day
15 JULY
STEFM Praise & Worship @ Church
9 JULY
Committee Retreat (online)
29 JULY @ 11am
Special Prayer Meeting @
Residence of Lejo & Sneha
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J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
29 SEP - 1 OCT
Senior Sunday School Camp
Sevika Sanghom Intercessory Prayer:
Every Thursday at 8.30pm Online
27 AUG
Cultural Day
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for
human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord
as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
- Colossians 3:23-24
Vice President: Mr. Biju Alummoottil George
Secretary: Mr. Anish John
Assistant Secretary: Mrs. Diya Abraham
Treasurer: Mr. Shiril Eapen Varughese
Accountant: Mr. Shijo Thomas
Lay Leaders: Mr. Joby K. Baby, Mr. Biju John, Mr. Saiju Simon &
. Mr. Kurian George
Psalms 62:2 - He only is my rock and my
salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be
greatly shaken.
….................................................................................
Dear Parents,
We hope you and your family are in good health
and high spirits, enjoying this well-deserved term
break. It brings us great joy to share with you the
latest updates and upcoming events from our
Sunday School.
Worship and Devotional by our Children:
As part of the Sunday School initiative to
encourage children’s involvement in Worship
sessions, every 4th Sunday, our children will lead
in the singing and the devotion.
Our first session commenced on the 28th of May
where 3 of our children, Livia, Abigail and Angela
led the Singing and the 25th of June where a
meaningful devotion session on Sin was led by 2 of
our Senior children, Zakea and Joshua. This
empowering experience allows our young ones to
grow in their faith and actively participate in the
spiritual journey of our Church.
Scripture Bee 2023:
This event provides a wonderful opportunity for
our students to showcase their knowledge of the
Scriptures and deepen their understanding of
God's Word. Encourage your children to
participate and let their love for the Scriptures
shine through!
When: 9th or 16th of July (Teachers will confirm
dates for your respective grades)
Location: Children will recite their allocated
portions in their respective classes, one by one.
Happenings from May and June 2023
Mid Term Exams:
Congratulations to all the students who took the
Mid Term exam on the 18th of June. We are
immensely proud of their hard work and
dedication. Their commitment to learning and
their spiritual growth is truly inspiring. Keep up the
excellent work!
Sunday School celebrated Mother’s Day and
Achen’s Birthday:
.
Sunday School Newsletter
July 2023
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
6
We were also blessed as a Sunday School family to
wish Achen and express our gratitude and
appreciation for Achen's guidance, support and
Ministry. We pray that God blesses him
abundantly in the coming year.
As we enjoy the term break, we eagerly anticipate
the beginning of Term 3. Classes will resume on
the 9th of July. We encourage you to help your
children prepare for the new term. Let us join
hands in nurturing their faith and guiding them on
this beautiful journey.
Upcoming Events:
1. Term 3 Commencement:
2. Scripture Bee: 9th or 16th of July 2023
3. Senior Get Together – Grade 9 and above
Date: 28th July 2023 at 7:30pm in Church
We appreciate your continuous support and
prayers as we strive to provide a nurturing
and spiritually enriching environment for our
children. May God's blessings be upon you
and your family abundantly.
With love and prayers,
Sunday School Team
4. Sunday School Senior Camp
Who: Grade 7 and above
Date: 29th September to 1st of October’23
Theme: Connexions – finding your identity in
Christ through life’s Crossroads
Our Sunday School Camp for Grade 7 and
above will take place at the Burnside Camp,
Anglesea Victoria. Registration form and
Camp
Flyer is attached. Kindly complete the form at
the earliest to enable for planning and all
arrangements.
Camp Registration Form Link:
https://bit.ly/SSCamp2023
The Sunday School family celebrated Mother’s Day
and our children participated during Worship to
recognise the special person in their lives.
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
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M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
Our Church has been operating under the Victorian Child Safe Standards that
came into effect from July 1st, 2022. The MMTC Framework for Child Safety
and Wellbeing, given below, has been developed to comply with the Child Safe
standards.
The three main processes to support our Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy are
the Recruitment of Volunteers, Risk Assessment and Management, and
Incident /Complaints Management. This framework was endorsed by the
General body in September last year and has been in effect since then. It is
now time to review our Framework and associated Policy and Procedures. All
members are invited to view documents and provide any feedback to the
Parish Child Safety Officer via email [email protected] on or before
Friday June 30th, 2023. Files can be accessed here.
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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10
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
The rising housing costs, utilities, and other essential expenses have
created a challenging environment for many Victorians, particularly
those with limited financial resources. As a result, more people are
facing homelessness or relying on support from community
organisations to meet their basic needs. Only two in five (38%)
households experiencing food insecurity reported receiving food relief
help from a charity or community organization over the last 12 months.
Karunya organised a Food Hamper Drive with Many Rooms to support
those in need.
101 food hampers containing 13 non-perishable items (303 kilos of
food) were packed with the financial donations received from the
members, and parish members and Sunday school children assisted
with the packing of these food hampers. Thank you to all the members
who contributed and assisted with this initiative.
KARUNYA
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J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
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CHOIR
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud
to the Rock of our salvation.
-Psalms 95:1
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J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
Master.Ron George Roy
Mrs.Leena Mariam Mathews
Mrs.Sheryl Susan Mathew
Mrs.Manju Abraham
Mr.John Kirubhakaran
Mr.Hanoch Zen Thomas
Mrs.Neeta Ann Mathew
Master.Hanoch Zen Thomas
Mr.Rohit Mathew Roy
Miss.Annika Mary Varughese
Mr.Bino Thomas
Miss.Sarah E Philip
Mr.John Thomas
Mr.Jophy P Varghese
Miss.Evelyn Sara Johnson
Miss.Jeffy Susan Biju
Mr.Thomas K Verghese
Mr.Jayden John Joji
Miss.Adele Ann Varughese
Mrs.Manju Ann Pramode
Mr.Tony Koshy
Mr.Michael Mammen
Mrs.Vinita John
Mrs.Kathreena Roy
Mr.Siju Varghese Palakara
Dr.V K Varughese
Mr.Jeffin George
Master.Christen Benny Binsu
Master.Jeremy Sajan Samuel
Master.Ivin Pulikkottil Saiju
Miss.Ruth Alice Renjan
Miss.Izel Marie Thomas
Mrs.Reena Simon
Mr.Christopher Paulose
Mrs.Ansu Annie George
Mrs.Chinnu Elizabeth Varghese
Master.Samuel Zak Saju
Mrs.Susan Thomas
Miss.Neha Sarah David
Mrs.Anju Selex
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
Dear Parishioners, above details are as per the records of the Church. If there are any corrections or
additions regarding this, please send an email to [email protected]
15
Master.Alexander Ivan Nevin
Mrs.Manjari Kuppayil Saji
Miss.Isabelle Ann Mathew
Miss.Faythe Lucia Alvin
Dr.Leena Cherian
Miss.Elise Maria John
Mrs.Rini Simon
Mr.Nathan Abraham Mathew
Mr.Jacob Alex
Miss.Neeshu Sarah Mathew
Miss.Mia Ann Thomas
Miss.Ivana Philip
Miss.Neha Annie Mathew
Master.Darren Jino Cherian
Mrs.Deepa Thomas Kunnutharayil
Mr.Dan Alexander
Mrs.Dipty Mathew
Master.Liam Thomas Mathew
Mr.Binsu George Thomas
Mr.Joseph Iype
Mr.Sharon Mary George
Mr.Blessy Samuel Thomas
Mrs.Annie George
Miss.Rhea Mary Thomas
Mrs.Julie Rajesh John
Master.James Ranjith
Master.Albin S Shaiju
Mrs.Lisa Biju
Mr.Abraham Cherian
Mrs.Sharon Elizabeth Mathew
Master.Vinay Parappat
Mr.Shijo Thomas
Mr.Renin Thomas
Mrs.Chinnu Rani Mathew
Mr.Richin Mathew
Mr.George Alex
Mr.Alex Sen Varghese
Mr.Verghese George
Mr.Mabin Thomas George
Mr.Sangeeth Tom Varghese
Mr. Alexander George, Mrs. Sheela George
Mr. Jithin Koshy Sajeev, Mrs. Sithara Wijewardena
Mr. Verghese George Mathew, Mrs. Serene George
Mr. Johnson K Varughese, Mrs. Jisha David
Mr. Sunil Mathew John, Mrs. Marlyn Mary Mathew
Mr. Anith George Thomas, Mrs. Maria Cherian
Mr. Mahesh V Mathews, Mrs. Akku Mariam John
Mr. Johny Kunnumpurathu Varkey, Mrs. Pameela Ittyerah Varkey
Mr. Jabin Jacob Kurien, Mrs. Cherish Marisa Philip
Mr. Jibin Thomas, Mrs. Dipty Mathew
Mr. Bobby Cheryian, Mrs. Annie Bobby
Mr. Subash Mathews Thomas, Mrs. Soby Oommen
Mr. Praveen George Thampi, Mrs. Lincy Elizabeth Zachariah
Mr. Anoop Charamparampil Cherian, Mrs. Irin Miriam John
Mr. Roshan Sam Thomas, Mrs. Anpu Anna George
Mr. Sony Philip, Mrs. Jackmil P J
Mr. Sunil George, Mrs. Riya Sunil
Mr. Johny Valiyaveettil Thomas , Mrs. Shiga Chakkiath
Mr. Prinu John Philip, Mrs. Ruby George
Mr. Ashok V S, Mrs. Jolly Achankunju
Mr. Roshan Abraham Varghese, Mrs. Seena Ann Samuel
Mr. Jino Cherian, Mrs. Preethi Mathew
Mr. Mathew John, Mrs. Mary Kutty John
Mr. Aby Thomas Mathew, Mrs. Shiny Aby Mathew
J U L Y 2 0 2 3 N E W S L E T T E R
M E L B O U R N E M A R T H O M A C H U R C H
Dear Parishioners, above details are as per the records of the Church. If there are any corrections or
additions regarding this, please send an email to [email protected]
16